Battlefield Cross-a brief definition
The Battlefield Cross, also known as the Fallen Soldier Memorial or Soldier’s Cross, are memorials that soldier’s place on battlefields or at a base camp. They are designed to honor a soldier who has been killed in action on the battlefield. It is symbolic of a cross and consists of the soldier’s boots, his/her rifle and helmet positioned on top of the rifle. The service members dog tag will sometimes be placed on the rifle if it isn’t on the boot. These are a small way that soldiers remember the fallen and usually take place soon after death.
Battlefield Crosses have their roots in World War I with the tradition of erecting a cross at the graves of fallen soldiers. During WWI, they were used to mark fallen soldiers’ graves and as a symbol of mourning for their families. As the war progressed and more soldiers died, the cross became increasingly prevalent as a way to honor the fallen. The Battlefield Cross has continued to evolve and is now used to honor those who have died in battle, as well as those who have served their country. It is a powerful and moving symbol of remembrance, and a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by our service members.
Battlefield Cross sculptures-their purpose
Battlefield Crosses are created for Veteran memorials in the US to honor fallen soldiers who died during battle. These life size bronze sculptures are a reminder that war is not free and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice need to be remembered and honored. It is for their bravery, their honor and their sacrifice that we have the freedoms we get to share today. We salute all the Vets who served and all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Our country is indebted to these heroes. And these sculptures are designed, created and cast in durable bronze to remember and honor their sacrifices.
Battlefield Cross- a journey to bronze
Early this year I was asked by the Mayor of Papillion, Nebraska if I had battlefield cross sculptures available. Since I didn’t have any I said I could make one. And the first Battlefield Cross sculpture I made was honoring the War on Terror. A couple of months later I was contacted by a small town in Utah who asked if I had a WWII Battle Cross. Not yet, was my reply. And then, not long after a good friend and client Earl Boston from West Point, Nebraska asked if I had a Vietnam version. For the past 25 years I had not once been asked if I had one, let alone three battlefield crosses. And all asked within a few months of each other from three different clients from different parts of the country. As the saying goes; when it rains it pours.
With my life size Battle Crosses I hope to help communities honor their brave and remember their sacrifices. They are an emotional tribute to these heroes who fought and died for our country. And whom without we would not be sharing the joys of freedom.
